Courtyard Private School

I agree with a previous poster that bullying was overlooked. The administration appeared to be more concerned with appeasing overbearing parents than advocating anti-bullying measures. I too expected more--much, much more-- from a private school that prides itself on its inclusiveness and fostering tolerance and respect within its student body.
--Submitted by a parent

Teacher quality varies from grade to grade. Excellence is not driven by leadership. Also, the quality of students admitted continues to deteriorate. I expect more from a private school.
--Submitted by a parent

As our son is several months into his 6th year at Courtyard, we are surprised that we could be even more satisfied with this school than we were before. We have always been pleased with this environment that has fostered his love for reading, learning and concern for others, but this year we have recognized how his school life enhances our home life with its balanced, thoughtful approach to homework assignments and nurturing study hall supervision. With rare exception, he has proudly reported the completion of his homework during study hall and his work is completed with great care. As a family of working professionals, we truly appreciate being able to enjoy extracurricular activities and a relaxed family dinner without unnecessary busy work in the form of redundant homework assignments. In addition to his academic growth, we are humbled by his moral development and compassion for others as fostered by the leaders in this community. Mrs. Krause leads an excellent and nurturing Extended Day staff and Mr. Molnar is caring and responsive as the principal.
--Submitted by a parent

In regards to the previous post, all I can say is REALLY. I have been a parent at this school for years and while the school did have a transitionary period, it is now flourishing under the new principal and staff. It is sad to me that when some parents do not get "their" own way, not what their children want but what "THEY" want then they can slam a school that not only educates the children but helps them grow into strong, smart, well - balanced young adults. These parents that complain about the Board members ought to step up to the plate and attend Board meetings like I have in the past when I have had concerns or questions. The principal is approachable and if the request is reasonable is usually willing to see if he can make it work. Bottom line is its a great school that will probably be better off with out parents that are more concerned about their own agendas then their childrens education
--Submitted by a parent

My children have been attending Courtyard since Kinder and Transitional Kinder. We were thrilled to find a private school located downtown that teaches the whole student. The children interact with each other from all grades and the older children aften have a role in mentoring the younger students. When my youngest son first started in T-K, it was great to walk into the school and have older and younger kids come say hi to him. I have been very impressed with the teaching staff and there willingness to go the extra effort. My children love to go school and don't want to leave at the end of the day. The extra activities that are offered right on campus allow my children to have guitar lessons or karate or ball room dancing without having to leave school. As a family with two working parents, Courtyard is the perfect place with before and after school care and activities and teaching staff on hand to help with study time. The curriculum is challenging and the approach each teacher takes is unique and exciting for the kids. Recently my kid had a report due about the rainforest and they worked in class on it and he chose to write a song - fun and creative for him!
--Submitted by a parent

Courtyard is a great community, a great school and a great learning and growing environment for the kids. My children started at Courtyard in 2007 and we have been fans ever since. Class sizes for my kids are 15 and 22 and they are known by name to virtually the whole community. The community is safe, supportive, and welcoming. My family is very involved in the school because there are wonderful opportunities to participate in so many activities that benefit the kids. Teachers are terrific and school leadership is supportive with a wide open door policy. Good thing are happening -- come check it out!!
--Submitted by a parent

This is NOT a great school. Bullying is overlooked, teachers show favortism to children of board members - who run the school and determine the salaries. The principal is a poor leader, but, then he must completely cater to the board. We have seen little effort made on his part to improve the quality of the school except to add 2 more grades. The facility is in need of vast overhaul, and there are very few enrichment programs offered. We are looking for another elementary school for our child.
--Submitted by a parent

Our son has been at Courtyard for six years. We are absolutely thrilled with the experience. The education is rigorous, the leadership os strong, the faculty and staff are competent and thoughtful. A+++
--Submitted by a parent

The new school year has begun and we are in our 3rd year at Courtyard - kids are in 2nd Grade and Kindergarten. The teachers who have taught our children thus far have been incredible. We have truly appreicated their passion in teaching and their time that they have spent in working with us (parents) so that we can effectively help our children in the areas needing extra practice at home. Good commuication between the parents and teachers is key and we have found that. Both kids representing different strengths and challenges have personally excelled and have enjoyed the process of learning. The field trips (on and off campus)have provided the kids with opportuities to experience hands-on learning , which has been rewarding. We know that no school is perfect and have found the open-door policy with the administration to be a positive experience. Most imporantly, the community is awesome!
--Submitted by a parent

I have 2 sons that have been at Courtyard school since Kindergarten. One is entering 6th grade and the other 2nd grade this year. The teachers are amazing and the leadership of the school is very organized and approachable. The great thing about courtyard is that while other schools are cutting programs, courtyard continues to offer Spanish, P.E., art, theatre arts. The fact that they are open from 6:30 in the morning until 6:00 in the evening makes it great for working parents. They serve breakfast and lunch as part of the normal tuition. My sons love the field trips, last year my oldest spent 4 days at Astro-camp and the year before was at Yosemite for 5 days. If you are looking for a safe community for your children to learn and excel then Courtyard school is the place to be!
--Submitted by a parent